Tag Archives: MN Contractors

Fast Facts-What You Need to Know Before You Start a Kitchen Remodel

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 3, 2013 – 1:28 pm
Filed under Construction, Kitchen Remodeling, Lighting, Lindus Construction, Remodeling, Skylight, www.lindusconstruction.com
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In the construction industry, it’s often common to find calculations that estimate how much money you will recoup from a home improvement project.  One of the projects that are always towards the top of the list is a kitchen remodel.  Depending on the market and the scale of the project, a kitchen remodel can provide as much as an 87% return on investment.  That’s why it’s crucial that the undertaking is executed properly the first time.  Below is a list of ways to make this project as pain-free and as successful as possible.

Take Your Time-Take some time to page through magazines and websites such as Houzz.com to see what you like in terms of style and layout.  While it can be tempting to jump the gun and get the project going in order to meet a deadline, like a graduation party or wedding shower, you can end up incurring more costs if you decide mid-way through the project that you want to remove a wall, relocate a sink, etc.  Imagine your disappointment if you hurry up and select a countertop only to learn later that it requires annual re-sealing, something that would have made you make another choice if you had known.

Finding the Right People for the Job- Think of a general contractor as the coach of a team. Their job is to gather bids, work with subcontractors and make sure that the work is done correctly, within your budget and on schedule. A general contractor has connections within the industry and has solid relationships with subcontractors (cabinet makers, countertop showrooms, etc.). These subcontractors want to perform exceptional work for general contractors because they know that this is how they will stay in business. Subcontractors are less likely to stay on time and within budget for someone they know they have little chance of ever working with again, such as the homeowner. While on the front end, hiring a general contractor can seem like an added expense, working with a skilled professional will often keep you on schedule and within budget.

Having a Budget with a Buffer- It’s important to establish a budget when renovating a kitchen. The budget should include a slush fund that takes into consideration unforeseen circumstances and overages because even with the best intentioned bid, incidentals will likely still come up.

Your Kitchen’s Footprint-Clearly, there are times when your kitchen’s footprint needs to be changed to maximize space.  However, if it’s possible, stick with same footprint which will allow you to forego costs incurred from demolition & reconstruction. Another perk?  Less dust and debris in your home.

Appliances-If your greatest culinary accomplishment in the last 5 years was not burning a grilled cheese sandwich, you may want to forego a vaulted oven in favor of something more practical and splurge elsewhere.

Quality Materials-Educate yourself on the materials you’re looking into using.  It may be tempting to go with a cheaper floor or countertop but if the product’s life expectancy is lower than something of better quality, you may end up costing yourself more in the long-run when you’re purchasing a replacement sooner than later and paying for it to be installed.

Needs vs. Wants- Obviously, every kitchen needs things like a sink or flooring.  However, a cutting edge, built in coffee system should fall into the “want” category.  Make sure you’ve got the necessities covered before you start committing to luxury accessories.

Ample Space-When planning your kitchen, be sure to include enough space so the doors on your appliances, such as refrigerator and oven, can be open and still have enough space to walk around them. so that doors can be space in front of your refrigerator and oven so that you can still walk in front of them even when they are opened.  Don’t allow corners to become a wasted space; consider adding a Lazy Susan.  Kitchen islands can be a great place to set up food buffets and store countertop appliances.  However, if space is already tight, you may want to go without since having one will only make your kitchen feel and look smaller.

Lighting-This is one area that often gets overlooked.  Oftentimes, homeowners wrongfully assume that a single fixture mounted in the center of the room is going to provide adequate lighting for the entire space.  This can cause a glare that overpowers the room.  Other options include track lighting, skylights and recessed lighting.

Considering remodeling your kitchen? We would like to help you with your vision and design! Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Home Appliance Energy Consumption

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 2, 2013 – 3:37 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Energy Efficient Homes, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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In the United States, over 20% of our total energy consumption is related to our home and we are the 7th largest per capita consumer of residential energy in the world according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Lighting and appliances in your home account for 10%-50% of your residential energy use. 80% of energy consumption in your home can be directly contributed to your light bulbs, refrigerator, washer & dryer and dishwasher. Below, we are going to talk about the four biggest offenders in residential energy consumption.

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Light bulbs

Incandescent Bulbs – oldest, most common light bulb to date, but also the most wasteful in its category. The lifespan is only 1500-2000 hours. Only 10% of the energy used go to light these bulbs. The other 90% creates heat, which requires additional cooling for comfort.

Compact Fluorescents (CFLs) – these use less electrical energy than incandescent bulbs. They are approximately 3 to 4 times more efficient that incandescent using75% less energy.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) – consist of as many as 18 bulbs clustered together. They have come a long way in their innovation fitting most common household fixtures. They only use 1/30 of the energy used by incandescent bulbs and only 1/3 of the electricity consumed by CFLs. LEDs will last up to 10 times longer and hold up well to jarring and bumping because they do not have the filament like incandescent bulbs. The cost of LEDs are initially expensive, but the cost is recouped over time with your energy savings. High-quality LED recessed lighting products are the new rave today incorporating all the best features currently found on the LED lighting market: energy savings up to 80%, 50,000 hour life spans, great light output and color, low environmental impact and the ability to be installed with a dimmer switched adding ambiance to any room.

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Dishwasher

Did you know that a dishwasher consumes 1/3 less hot water than hand washing your dishes? 80-90% of the energy used for your dishwater is consumed by the water heater. Some older dishwashers require a water temperature of at least 130° F to get dishes cleaned. Newer models on the market have smaller booster heaters using less water heating energy.  Save more money while running your dishwasher by choosing an air dry vs. heated drying option.

 

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Washer & Dryer

Horizontal axis washers use 50-75% less energy & water than vertical axis washer, but costs a lot more. On average, it costs about 10 times more to dry a load of laundry than it does to wash it (so if you ware like many American households that “fluff” your laundry in the dryer 3 times before folding think of the energy being wasted doing that). Ways to save money while doing laundry are:

  • Use cold water whenever possible
  • Be sure to adjust the water lever to match each load size
  • Always clean your dryer lint filter
  • Use an auto sensor function if you have one to avoid longer than usual drying

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Refrigerators & Freezers

They account for 9-15% of a household’s total energy usage. If you have a refrigerator that is 20 years old or more, you should consider an upgrade you will end of saving money in the long run. When looking for a new refrigerator, you want to consider these options for optimal energy efficiency:

  • Manual defrost over automatic
  • Freezer on top/bottom instead of side-by-side
  • Chest freezer over upright freezer
  • One larger over two smaller units

An extra refrigerator or freezer can cost you an additional $100 in energy costs per year. The fuller you keep your freezer,  the less work it has to do to keep items cold because the food inside stores cold air.

Lindus Construction is proud to now be RESNET certified and would like to help you in your quest for energy efficiency in your home. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com  to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Make sure to tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for the Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

 

Increase Home Energy Efficiency with a RESNET Assessment

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 26, 2013 – 4:08 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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RESNET stands for, Residential Energy Services Network, and is a nationally recognized certification and rating system in the United States for home energy efficiency. As a RESNET qualified EnergySmart Contractor, such as Lindus Construction, you can rest assured that you are working with a professional that has the knowledge from passing a RESNET administered exam as well as successfully completing approved energy efficiency training.

In today’s age, when we are all looking where to save a dollar or two, a home energy assessment could be exactly what you are looking for to improve your home’s energy efficiency and put more green back in your pockets. An energy audit will determine three things for you;

  • Where and how energy is being lost in your home
  • Which systems are operating efficiently
  • What kind of cost effective measures can be put into place to make your home more comfortable, affordable & more important more energy efficient

Did you know that a duct leaking air in your home wastes between 10-30% of heating & cooling energy and it may require as much as one ton of AC just to overcome that leak?

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Energy Weakness Areas in your Home That Will Be Checked

  • Porches
  • Roof Overhangs
  • Shafts for chimneys or pipes
  • Protruding or indented windows & doors
  • Crawlspaces & basements that are connected to the outdoors

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Blower Door Testing

Blower door testing is done by depressurizing your home, to amplify air leakage, so it can be measured and air leaks can be located. Blower door testing is one of the most practical ways to predict energy saving from air sealing methods. Some of the biggest sources of air leakage in your home are;

  • Penetration through top plates & gaps between sheetrock
  • Around electrical boxes
  • Recessed can lights
  • Open floor joists, chases & fireplaces
  • Wall cavity openings at the bottom of kneewalls
  • Open furrdowns or dropped ceilings
  • Attic access areas
  • Whole house fans

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Benefits of Having a Home Energy Assessment

  • Your energy bills will be lower increasing your energy saving
  • Consistent comfort throughout your home instead of feeling too warm or cold
  • Increased resale value for your home
  • Being informed of potential hidden problems enabling you to take action before a problem gets out of hand
  • Helping the environment from less greenhouse gases being generated from your home

Lindus Construction is proud to now be RESNET certified and would like to help you in your quest for energy efficiency in your home. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com  to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Make sure to tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for the Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

 

 

 

5 Signs it’s Time for a Kitchen Overhaul

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 22, 2013 – 1:13 pm
Filed under Construction, Home Construction, Kitchen Remodeling, Lindus Construction, Midwest LeafGuard, Remodeling, www.lindusconstruction.com
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When you want something bad enough, it’s hard for you to be an unbiased judge as to whether or not your want is, in fact, a need.  Here are a few indicators that your kitchen is due for a complete overhaul, not just a fresh coat of paint or granite countertop.

Your Layout is Unnatural- In every kitchen you’ll find a stove, sink and refrigerator.  While designers often have their own opinions on what makes a room aesthetically appealing, most all agree on the kitchen triangle concept.  This approach became widely embraced in the 1940s when kitchens were often tight spaces, overrun by large appliances.  To make the most of a small space, stoves, refrigerators, and sinks were set up in a triangular fashion.  While this is not the only way to set up a kitchen, bear in mind that breathing room between the primary work spaces makes food preparation less of a hassle by keeping traffic in your work spaces to a minimum.  If you’re only stocking the necessities in terms of food, tableware and small kitchen appliances, and you still find yourself using your countertops as a pantry after buying a week’s worth of groceries, chances are you don’t have enough storage and the space you do have is not being put to good use.

Your Home is Going to Market-It’s no secret that a kitchen remodel is one of the home investments that reaps the highest return.  It’s also common knowledge to those buying a home that a kitchen is one of the most expensive areas to renovate.  If your current kitchen looks like something seen on The Brady Bunch, utilize a kitchen remodel to get top dollar for your property.  FYI-a remodel doesn’t have to include over the top features.  Focus on matching appliances, adequate storage space and neutral patterns on countertops and backsplashes.

Appliances made before the World Wide Web was Created-We’ll give you props if you’ve got appliances from the early 1990s that still run.  However, we’re still going to argue that it’s time for them to be upgraded.  The National Association of Home Builders gives a life expectancy guideline for major appliances as follows: dishwasher and microwave, 9 years; garbage disposal, 12 years; refrigerator, 13 years; range, 13-15 years.  In addition to technology and aesthetic advancements, today’s appliances are the most energy efficient they’ve ever been.

You Discourage Guests from Gathering in the Kitchen- Having this happen should be a red flag that you no longer, or may have never considered, the kitchen to be the heart of your home.  Your kitchen should be a point of pride and if that’s not the case, it’s time to start evaluating what features can be added or modified to change your feelings.  Another similar sign it’s time for a change is when you, yourself, no longer wish to spend time preparing or eating in your kitchen.

To Repair Damage- If your kitchen has been damaged by water, fire, etc., it’s well worth looking into redoing the whole room, rather than just minor repairs to get by.  Ignoring or failing to evaluate the full extent of water damage, can lead to the growth of mold which leads to even bigger issues.  If water damage has occurred, at the very least, speak with a professional who can tell you for certain whether or not there are signs of mold growth; home tests are not 100% accurate.

Considering remodeling your kitchen? We would like to help you with your vision and design! Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects

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More than Just Shingles-The Components of an Asphalt Roof

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 15, 2013 – 12:16 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When researching what you need to know before hiring a professional to assist in a home improvement project, you’ll oftentimes find that it’s recommended that you contact at least 3 companies to give you an estimate.  Price is one of the driving factors many homeowners consider when choosing whom to hire.  It can often be a cause for bewilderment when an estimate for a project such as a roof, varies widely between companies.  Unless you encounter storm damage, it’s unlikely that during your tenure as owner of a home, you’ll replace your roof more than twice.  So it’s no wonder that confusion is likely to arise when bids come in vastly different.  It’s important to take to heart that your roof is more than just shingles.  When installed correctly, your roof is an entire system that has several layers in order to maximize the system’s lifespan and protect your home from Mother Nature.

Here, at Lindus Construction, we have chosen to align ourselves with GAF which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial asphalt roofing.  We appreciate the thoughtfulness behind their approach to roofing and the fact that they lead the industry with a 50 year non-prorated warranty on labor & materials. Here are the elements contained in a GAF asphalt roofing system:

Weather Watch Leak Barrier Ice & Water Shield: This is the first thing to be installed.  All leak barriers have a backside that is tacky which helps it adhere to the roof decking.  An advantage of the Weather Watch system is that it contains a special adhesive that allows for one-time repositioning, something not commonly found in other brands.  It aggressively adheres over time.  The advantage of having the adhesive take time to adhere is that if the underside is too sticky from the get-go, air pockets can occur during the application process.  Eventually these air pockets will be punctured which creates an opportunity for a leak.

Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection: The purpose of this product is to provide a crucial additional layer of protection between your shingles and your roof deck.  It assists in deterring water, ice and snow from penetrating the underside of your shingles which can compromise your roof’s structure and your home’s interior.  Typical “felts” are less thick and are susceptible to tearing while workers are hammering on your roof.  This can cause tears which are prone to leaking.  Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection will also assist in shingles being laid flat and uniform which will give your roof more aesthetic appeal.

Flashing: Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where your roof meets a wall in your home.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.  There are several different types of flashing including: kickout, valley step, etc.  Failure to utilize the correct amount, placed in the right areas can lead to leaking in your home, mold and a shortened lifespan of your roof.

Venting System: Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture can build up in your attic which can cause your heating and cooling bills to increase.  Another side effect of inadequate ventilation is ice dams.  Ice dams usually occur after a heavy snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures. Warm air inside your home leaks into the attic and will warm the underside of the roof causing snow and ice on the roof to melt. The melted water will drain along the roof, under the snow, until it reaches the cold overhang. The overhang tends to be at the same temperature as the outdoors and the melted water will refreeze and form an ice dam and icicles. The ice dam can cause damage to the roof, which will result in water leaks to the inside. Frequently the result will be a water spot on the ceiling under the roof damage.  It’s also important to note that many roofing manufacturers will not warranty a roof that is not ventilated correctly.

Lindus Construction offers both asphalt and metal roofing options. In 2011, they were named the #1 Roofer in the United States by GAF, which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Protect Yourself from a Mechanic’s Lien During Your Home Improvement Project

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 12, 2013 – 2:32 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , ,

lien

If you have never heard about a mechanic’s lien, or you have heard the term but do not really know what a mechanic’s lien is, you are not alone. There are many things to know about when you own your own home and plan on remodeling or have improvements made on your property. Below, we are going to discuss what a Mechanic Lien is and how to properly avoid one during your home improvement process.

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What is a Mechanic’s Lien?

The legal definition of a mechanic’s lien is the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, architect or other person who has worked upon improvements or delivered materials to a particular parcel of real estate (either as an employee of the owner or as a sub-contractor to a general contractor) to place a lien on that real property for the value of the services and/or materials if not paid. In layman’s terms this means that the contractor and any subcontractor or material supplier for a building project can go to court and try to take possession of your property if they are not paid.

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How to protect yourself from a lien?

In order to protect yourself from having liens filed against your property, you should have the contractor list in the contract the names of all anticipated subcontractors and material suppliers. Be sure to keep track of any notices you may receive and before making a final payment; be sure you have received lien waivers signed by each of the subcontractors. At Lindus Construction we pre-lien every job ensuring the protection of our customers as well as ourselves.

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You only have to pay once if you ask for the lien waiver!

If you obtain a valid lien waiver from the subcontractor, or if you pay the general contractor in full before receiving the notice from the subcontractor, you cannot be forced to pay for the services or material a second time if the contractor fails to pay the subcontractor.

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Steps to avoiding a lien on your property

  • Hire a reliable, reputable contractor who has been in business for a number of years.
  • Use a written contract that lists the subcontractors and suppliers for each stage of work you are requesting and outlines progress payments on completion of each stage.
  • Actively supervise the project and ensure any changes to the original contract are noted.

Lindus Construction has been in business for over the last 30 years and have over 50,000 happy customers. It is no secret that we are doing something right with over 30% of our new customers coming from referrals. Call us at 1-800-873-1451 for a free no-obligation estimate or check us out at www.lindusconstruction.com. Tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for our Home Improvement Show with Andy Lindus & Denny Long.

Flashing-A Roof Leak Preventative

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 8, 2013 – 12:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Roofing, Roofing Installation, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When it comes to replacing your roof, homeowners spend a lot of time selecting shingle style and color.  There’s nothing wrong with this, especially when you consider that companies like GAF put out roofing systems that have non-prorated warranties that last 50 years.   But it’s also, if not equally more important, to understand the components being installed in conjunction with your shingles because they act as additional protectors for your home from issues such as water damage.  One of these protective components is called flashing.  Likely, flashing is not something that is top of mind when it comes to re-roofing your home, but failure to pay ample attention to it can dramatically shorten the lifespan of your roof and lead to water damage in your home.

What Is Flashing:  Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where a roof meets a wall.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.

Types of Flashing:

Kickout- Itsprimary purpose is to protect your home’s structure, windows & siding.  Additionally, it prevents water from going behind your siding where your roof meets a wall.  This type of flashing is installed over the edge of your roof.  Without it, the water that drains down your roof will come crashing down your roof and splash onto your windows & siding.  As this process repeats, mold, rot and structural damage can occur.

Valley- On a roof, a valley is an area where two adjoining sloped roof planes intersect on a roof creating a “V” shaped depression.  Valleys can be common sources of roof leaking because they catch water speeding down two roof planes; they disperse more water off a roof than does any individual roof plane.  Inadequate or improper installation of valley flashing can result in circumstances such as your roof caving in or your roof decking rotting.  Valleys come in two varieties.  They are: closed valley & open valley.  A closed valley is where the metal flashing is installed first and then the shingles are placed on top of it.  An open valley is where the flashing is laid first, followed by the shingles.  The tin is left exposed.  Additionally, three rows of ice and water shield are placed in this area.  Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.

Step- Step flashing gets its name because it is comprised of several pieces of flashing that “step up” the roof with each progression of shingles and when the process is completed, the flashing looks like steps going up a wall.  Step flashing is important because it is a protectant against leaking where a roof & wall come together.  Improper step flashing can also lead to leaking where a chimney and wall meet.

Vent Pipe- It’s not uncommon to see a vent pipe sticking out from numerous places along your roofline.  Vent pipes can be for bathroom vents, sewer vents, hot water heaters, furnaces, etc.  Over time, due to nature’s elements, the seal between the pipe and roof begins to erode.  Installing vent pipe flashing defends against water damage to your home.

Chimney- Like its name states, chimney flashing is positioned around a chimney for the purpose of sealing it off against water.  One type of chimney flashing is called “chimney cricket”.  This piece of metal is installed on the back side of the chimney with the intention of diverting water away from it, as chimneys are an area that can easily leak.  If you notice stains on the walls that are in close proximity to your chimney, it’s quite likely that your chimney flashing has been comprised.  Prompt attention should be paid to this matter to avoid further damage, including mold growth.

Skylight-When a skylight is installed, a hole is cut in your roof to accommodate it.  Skylights must have flashing installed around them.  Without it, leaking can occur, damaging the interior of your home.  Many skylight companies offer flashing kits that are specifically designed for their product.

Drip Edge-Drip edge flashing can be installed on your roof’s gable edges and eaves. It will preserve the fascia board from windblown rain.  Additionally, it assists in bolstering roof shingles from sagging into your gutters or being broken should a tree branch fall on it.  Drip edge flashing also serves as a preventative for shingles being pulled off the roof during heavy winds.

Sidewall-This type of flashing should be installed where a section of roofing meets a vertical wall.  This will add an additional level of protection to prevent water from leaking behind your walls, 01siding, etc.  This can lead to rot, mold, etc. which can end up causing a homeowner thousands of dollars.

Lindus Construction offers the #1 selling roofing systems in North America, GAF Asphalt Roofing and was recognized in 2011 as the #1GAF roofing contractor in the country. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

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LP SmartSide – Pioneers in Sustainable Siding For Your Home!

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 29, 2013 – 1:58 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, LP, LP SmartSide, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Picking the right siding for your home is a delicate balancing act between good looks, durability, maintenance & affordability. LP SmartSide siding is a resilient mix of wood strands & fibers, zinc borate, and superior exterior-grade resins that are proven to withstand extreme heat, cold, humidity & rainfall.

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LP SmartSide works and cuts just like traditional wood, taking nails and screw with ease for easy installation. It does not require special safety training and special gear to protect against airborne silica, like fiber cement. Their warranty is unmatched with their 5/50-year limited warranty providing a 5-year 100% labor and replacement feature and a 5/50-year prorated limited warranty on the product.

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How LP SmartSide is manufactured

LP SmartSide is manufactured in Tomahawk, WI. All the wood that is used at their facility is SFI® (sustainable Forestry Initiative) certified, which is the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. SFI® certification helps insure that the wood being used only comes from well-managed forests. By having LP SmartSide installed on your home, you are helping builders reduce waste on the jobsite. This is because without knots, fewer siding needs to be discarded.  Fewer knots also mean that the siding can be produced in longer lengths, which cuts back on the number of pieces used.  Because the siding is so durable, you may even qualify for certification points in current leading green building programs now available. Here is the manufacturing process of LP SmartSide:

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  • When the logs arrive on site, they go through a conditioning process so it comes in at the right moisture content for the bark to be removed off the log.
  • They reuse the bark and any other byproducts of the log for heating their facility so nothing is wasted.
  • After the bark is removed, the log itself is turned into precisely shaped strands of wood that are now ready to be dried.
  • The size of the wood strands is very precise; that is what gives their product such strength & durability, allowing it to lay flat and true to your home.
  • After the strands are cut, they still contain 50% moisture content and the product is tumbled in large steel drums that force the moisture out of the product to between 5%-10%.
  • Once the strands of wood are dried they go through the SmartGuard process, which is the blending of the strands with an exterior rated binder, which acts as industrial strength glue.
  • In addition to the SmartGuard process, they add a wood preservative treatment that is environmentally safe and EPA registered. The American Wood Preservatives Association recognizes it because it’s proven effective against termites, wood decay and rot. That is why LP SmartSide has an industry leading 50-year warranty.
  • After the SmartGuard and wood preservative process, the strands of the product have been mixed thoroughly together and are formed into a woven mat that is overlaid with a resin impregnated paper.
  • It then travels into a heated press, and under intense heated pressure, the mat that is 6-8 inches thick is compacted down to as small as 3/8 inch.
  • The realistic wood grain finish is pressed into the product from plates during the heated pressure process allowing for the look of wood without having to deal the natural defects of it.
  • The wood grain finish is very realistic and doesn’t have the natural defects of natural wood. When the product is being pressed under the heat and pressure, there are plates that push the wood grain texture into the product.
  • Once pressed, it comes out in a sheet that is about 16 feet long that is cut down into 4’x16’ sheet products.
  • They further cut these sheets down into the specific sizing that is needed.

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Lindus Construction is proud to be a Platinum member of LP’s Build Smart Preferred Remodeler Program. We have gone through extensive training with LP through jobsite audits and LP University to make sure that every job is done to the specifications that the manufacturer entails. We also offer a visual remodeler program that allows you to view LP® SmartSide® on your current home. LP® SmartSide® comes in 100 different profiles so the possibilities are endless!!

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Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

 

Replacing Your Windows & Siding Simultaneously

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 25, 2013 – 12:31 pm
Filed under Awning, Bay, Bow, Casement, CenterLock Siding, Construction, Double Hung, Garden, James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding, SeasonGuard Siding, Siding, Sliding, Sweaty Windows, Vinyl Windows, Window Condensation, Windows, Wood Siding, Wood Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Though the weather may not reflect it, the calendar is saying that spring has sprung!  Earlier this month, we took an entire day to get all of our employees in the same room at same time.  (With 100+of us, this can feel like quite a feat!)  “Aha moments” are always abundant when we get everyone in the same room (though a JibJab video and caffeine can be of great assistance in the morning!)  One of our installers brought up the fact that there are several ways a homeowner benefits from replacing their windows and siding at the same time.  While this concept makes perfect sense in our industry, it’s not something a homeowner may even be aware of as they plan home improvement projects. 

Why it’s a Good Idea

Replacing your siding and windows in tandem allows you to achieve the best possible scenario.  It oftentimes saves you money because caulking and sealing window openings & trim and siding joints will only need to happen once.  This saves you in labor costs by not having this work performed twice.  Because these two projects are so often done concurrently, it’s fairly easy to find a contractor that can perform both tasks which also saves you by not having to hire two separate companies.  Another way you save by replacing siding and windows synchronically is in energy costs.

Protecting Your Home if the Work Must Be Performed Separately

If you’ve already had the siding replaced and are now noticing that your windows aren’t as energy efficient as they once were, there are still ways to protect your siding during the removal of the old windows.  One method is to install window trim around current windows when the new siding is installed.  This prevents the new siding from protruding the nailing fins.  This means that when the old windows are removed only the window trims will need to be removed, leaving the siding undisturbed.  Installing window trims with screws, rather than nails, can also minimize damage during the window removal process.

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your windows:

  • You hear your windows rattling when it is windy outside
  • You notice your windows develop an icy or frosty glaze inside the window pane
  • You feel your home becomes drafty with cold air in the winter months and warm air in the summer months
  • You see excessive condensation on your windows or they become fogged
  • You have to prop your windows open because they will not stay open on their own

 

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your siding:

  • You are adding on to your home
  • Your current siding looks weathered and constantly needs new paint
  • Existing siding has extensive insect damage or dry rot
  • Current siding has stains or has weathered unevenly
  • Existing siding shows signs of buckling or decay.

 

Looking for a professional to assist you with new windows & siding?   Let the professionals at Lindus Construction help you. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

 

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“Fresh Air” Skylights & Why You Can’t Go Another Day Without One in Your Home

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 20, 2013 – 8:09 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, VELUX, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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I don’t think there is a single person in the Twin Cities area that is not ready for spring to arrive in a big way. We are ready to put gloomy cloudy, days behind us and open the windows to let the fresh air and sunshine in.  If you are in the mood to maximize the combination of fresh air and sunshine into your living area, we have just the home improvement product for you. It is called the Solar Powered “Fresh Air” skylight by VELUX. You will see the features and benefits below by adding skylights to you home and how it will not only increase your mood, but put money back in your pocketbook as well.

 

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Artificial lighting is one of the largest sources of energy consumption in the United States, accounting for up to 40% of a structure’s total energy use. By installing a skylight properly in your home, you will recoup your money in less than two years. By adding natural light to your living area with skylights, you will be reducing your use of artificial light in those areas on average up to 70%-80%.  The best thing about exposing yourself to natural light more often is that you can expect a 24% increase in energy according to scientific experts!

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How it works

The Solar Powered “Fresh Air” skylight features a solar panel that captures any available daylight and uses it to recharge a highly efficient, fully concealed, battery powered operator and control system. The battery-powered operator is the power source that opens and closes the skylight, and the solar panel serves as the charging source for the system

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Benefits of adding a Solar Powered “Fresh Air” skylight in your home

  • 30% federal tax credit is eligible the Solar Powered “Fresh Air” Skylight.
  • The no leak warranty carries a 10-year installation warranty, plus 20-years on glass. 10-years on the product & 5-years on blinds & controls.
  • Adding fresh air and ventilation to your home is essential to your health & well-being.
  • The solar panel works even on cloudy days with indirect sunlight. It does not have to be exposed to direct sunlight to function.
  • In case of inclement weather, it has an integrated rain sensor that will close the automatically.
  • The skylight requires no wiring, which makes for easy and cost effective installation.
  • It is remote controlled for extreme ease of use.
  • The inner pane is laminated for additional safety so if the glass accidentally broke it will not shatter. Laminated glass meets codes for products installed out of reach.
  • There are eight different choices of blinds to choose from. If you order the skylight & the blind at the same time VELUX will pre-program your remote to control both the window and the blind.

Lindus Construction is a proud 5-star dealer of VELUX Skylights. Give us a call now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free no-obligation estimate on a Solar “Fresh Air” skylight so you can enjoy it all summer. Tune into WCCO 830AM on Saturday’s from 9-10am for our Home Improvement show with Andy Lindus & Denny Long.